With his 2L year underway, Christopher Emch '18 is already looking ahead to next semester, when he will participate in Pace's prestigious Federal Judicial Honors Program and spend the spring interning with a federal judge. "I chose this path because learning the mechanics of our judicial system from inside a judge's chambers is an invaluable experience," Christopher says. "What better way is there to be an effective advocate for your client than to understand the expectations on the other side of the bench?"
Reflecting on his initial decision to attend Pace, Christopher cites two motivating factors. "First, the school offers significant value for the amount of time and money that students invest in their JD," Christopher explains. "Pace's academic programs are built to prepare students for the bar, and its merit-based financial aid offering means that I will graduate without a mountain of debt." Christopher also points to the extensive career placement resources available to students. "The legal field is fiercely competitive," Christopher says, "but Pace's career advisers have connections to some of the profession's most sought-after law firms and public-sector employers."
Beyond affordability and outcomes, Christopher also identifies what he considers the most underrated factor in choosing a law school: camaraderie. "I found a great group of friends at Pace," Christopher says, "and I think many of the students in our class have had a similar experience. We motivate each other and provide a much-needed dose of humanity when the hours get long or the work gets particularly arduous. Each law school has its own culture that way, and I am fortunate to have chosen one where I feel quite at home among my classmates."